Transitions in Gender Roles in Contemporary India: A Cross-Generational Analysis

Anjali Mittal; Muskaan Bhatia; Vani Jain

doi:10.47814/ijssrr.v9i2.3099

Anjali Mittal Clinical Psychologist, Kaleidoscope Life Skills, New Delhi, Delhi, India
Muskaan Bhatia Clinical Psychologist, Emotion of Life, Agra, Uttar Pradesh, India
Vani Jain HR Business Partner, Spyne India, Gurugram, Haryana, India

DOI: https://doi.org/10.47814/ijssrr.v9i2.3099

Keywords: Gender Roles, Gender Roles Transition, Femininity, Content Analysis, Societal Norms

Abstract

This study explores how gender roles in India have evolved across generations, focusing on the perceptions of young adults and middle-aged adults living in Delhi and the NCR. Using a qualitative design and a semi-structured interview format, data were collected from 80 participants (40 aged 18–30 and 40 aged 40+). Responses were thematically analyzed, revealing seven major themes: typical roles, desirable characteristics, moral ethics, career expectations, societal norms, safety, and additional personality traits. Findings indicate both continuity and change in gender role expectations. While traditional role beliefs such as nurturing females and financially responsible males remain prominent, younger participants demonstrated more egalitarian views regarding personality traits, career aspirations, and gender equality. The study highlights a gradual transition toward flexibility in gender roles, though longstanding societal norms continue to influence expectations. These results underscore the need for further research on how cultural, generational, and social factors shape evolving gender identities in contemporary India.

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